Pierre LeBrun reveals the frontrunner to acquire Nikita Kucherov
Photo credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The Nikita Kucherov trade saga just took a dramatic turn, and the Vegas Golden Knights are now part of the conversation.
The Tampa Bay Lightning star has asked for a trade after telling the club he will not re-sign, and The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun believes Vegas is a team to watch. Here is what LeBrun had to say:
I would keep an eye on Vegas, too. That would be just the kind of home-run swing GM Kelly McCrimmon has been so successful at pulling off. Big stars Mark Stone, Jack Eichel and Mitch Marner were attracted to that organization, and McCrimmon found a way to attack those deals.
Why Vegas Is a Natural Fit
The logic is easy to see. Vegas has built its identity on landing franchise talent, and ESPN reported that Kucherov wants to join a team that already has another NHL superstar.
With Eichel and Marner in the lineup, the Golden Knights check that box. Kucherov is a Hart Trophy winner and three-time Art Ross Trophy winner, a difference-maker of the caliber McCrimmon has chased before.
Kucherov is 33 and in the final season of an eight-year contract with a $9.5 million cap hit. He holds a modified no-trade clause, which lets him submit 10 approved destinations, so any deal must run through that list. LeBrun also would not be surprised if Montreal is on it.
The Cap and Cost Hurdles
Money is the obvious obstacle. Chris Johnston reported Kucherov sought a six-year extension worth about $20 million per season, a massive commitment for any club.
Vegas would need to clear room and send salary back, while Tampa Bay maintains it has no intention of moving him.
LeBrun believes the request is serious, and Kucherov is expected to keep playing for the Lightning while they sort out next steps.
The insider even wondered whether Kucherov could withhold his services to force a deal. No deal is in place, and a standoff could drag on.
Still, if McCrimmon's track record means anything, expect the Golden Knights to stay in the mix as this story develops.
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